BBC4 rules out more games programmes

BBC FOUR HAS told MCV that it is unlikely to increase its focus on video games – despite heavy praise for its ‘Electric Dreams’ season of shows.

Last week the digital and satellite only channel kick-started its run of technology-focused programming, including Gameswipe – a one-off games special by former PC Zone writer and The Guardian columnist Charlie Brooker – and a dramatisation of the life of ZX Spectrum inventor Sir Clive Sinclair.

Gameswipe drew over 300,000 views – a generous share of BBC Four’s average 8m viewers a week, and which Brooker said outperformed his other shows News Wipe and Screenwipe.

“We were delighted with the response both to Gameswipe and ‘Electric Dreams’,” a spokesperson from the commissioning team said.

“In Charlie Brooker you have an original, savagely funny view of the world and also an expert knowledge of games and gamers. People who have no interest in the subject trust him to introduce them to what it's all about and enthusiasts trust him to have something well-observed and truthful to say.

“Games are unlikely to be a regular feature of BBC Four but we'll almost certainly return to the subject at some point.”

MCV is the leading trade news and community site for all professionals working within the UK and international video games market. It reaches everyone from store manager to CEO, covering the entire industry. MCV is published by NewBay Media, which specialises in entertainment, leisure and technology markets.